Jefferson City Council discusses 1% sales tax, forming conference center transportation development district

KMIZ on December 16, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Jefferson City Council on Monday night opted to move forward with its petition to form the Downtown Jefferson City Conference Center Transportation Development District.

The council sought to authorize a lawsuit to be filed in the Cole County Circuit Court to form the Downtown Jefferson City Conference Center Transportation Development District. Information from the meeting packet says a 1% sales tax in the district would be utilized for transportation improvements for the downtown conference center.

The council approved the measure 7-3, with dissenting votes coming from Ward 2 Councilman Aaron Mealy, Ward 3 Councilman Derek Thomas and Ward 5 Councilwoman Mackenzie Job.

Previous reporting says a design report outlined the 189,420-square-foot facility, which would be built between Madison and Monroe streets, with the main entrance on East Capitol Avenue.

The project includes a 200-room hotel, bar, conference room, grand ballroom, restaurant, coffee shop, and 526 parking spaces. City officials said the design aims to attract more visitors downtown and boost local business activity.

A judge has to approve the decision. The city is listed as both a plaintiff and a defendant in the petition, and the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission is also listed as a defendant.

The city expects roughly $170,000 to be generated from the sales tax each year, according to the petition. The downtown conference center transportation district will have five board members, with two members having three-year-terms, two having two-year terms and one with a one-year term, according to court documents.  

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Indoor Pickleball Center Coming to Goleta

KEYT on December 16, 2025

Scott Hennessee

GOLETA, Calif. (KEYT) – Rain or shine, early morning or late at night, pickleball players will soon have a place to dink and smash away. According to a news release, The Picklr Santa Barbara is under construction at the former site of Bed Bath and Beyond in the Fairview Shopping Center in Goleta.

The facility will have seven pickleball courts, light fitness equipment, showers, lockers, a community lounge/meeting room, and a pro shop. Local residents Ted and Trish Guggenheim are the owner/operators. The target date to open is Spring of 2026. They plan to operate seven days a week from 6 a.m. to midnight.

The Picklr is a franchise of pickleball facilities that is growing rapidly in line with demand for more courts nationwide. Pickleball is said to be the fastest growing sport in America, with more than 13 million people participating.

Monthly and annual memberships are available. Day passes will be available for non-members.

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Volunteers prepare Adopt-A-Family Gift Room ahead of Wednesday opening

News-Press NOW on December 16, 2025

TaMya Bracy

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (KQTV) — Volunteers worked on setting up the Adopt-A-Family Gift Room on Monday, and will continue efforts into Tuesday to prepare for visitors.

The room is set to open on Wednesday. Until then, families will be contacted over the next few days to schedule an appointment to browse through the gift room.

Nichi Seckinger, the AFL-CIO’s executive director, said the gift room usually has a big supply of items going into the year; however, the agency has seen an increase in applicants.

“We’re kind of going through more and more each year, and cutting more and more into that back inventory,” she said. “So getting more items in is always going to be helpful, especially when our numbers creep over 800. We just don’t get as many donations to carry it. So we’ve been low for a couple of years compared to what we normally have in back inventory.”

Seckinger said the gift room has a wide array of items for families to go through, specifically clothing.

“This year, we have a lot of clothing and a lot more clothing than we normally have had in the past. So we’re really hoping that will help out those families quite a bit,” she said.

Seckinger also said the agency is seeing more toys coming in for the gift room, but is still looking for items to satisfy gifts for teens.

“That’s the hardest to get for kids and figure out what they want and what can be used for them,” she said.

According to Seckinger, the easiest thing for the community to donate would be stocking stuffers.

“A great way to grab some items and throw them in a bag, and bring them in, and we will definitely make those as well,” she said. “It’s a pretty affordable donation to make, and how much you would have to spend.”

Seckinger said they feel pretty good about how the Adopt-A-Family process is going so far, as Christmas approaches.

“The way it’s coming together and we’re really excited for some of the families to see the new gift room and, we have so much more room now, and I think it’ll make it easier for them to go through and make it much easier for them to see the different items,” she said. “Hopefully, it will be a lot easier for them to find it in our new setup. So we’re excited about that and we’re hoping it works better for our families.”

As the holidays approach, the agency is still seeking adopters and donations for local families.

Monetary donations can be made through the agency’s website or by phone at 816-364-1131 using a credit or debit card.

All monetary donations will be used to purchase gift cards and food vouchers to help supplement families who aren’t chosen for public adoption.

AFL-CIO Community Services, located at 1203 N. Sixth St., is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 20.

Community members interested in adopting can call the AFL-CIO’s number or email adopt@helpmenow.org.

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Savannah High School student arrested for allegedly pulling a pistol out on school property

News-Press NOW on December 16, 2025

News-Press NOW

SAVANNAH, Mo. (KQTV) — An 18-year-old Savannah High School senior was arrested after allegedly pulling a pistol out on school property during a verbal altercation Friday.

Chris Burnett was booked in the Andrew County jail and is facing charges for the unlawful use of a weapon.

An email went out to Savannah parents and families on Friday, explaining the incident had occurred and assuring families that there were no injuries and no ongoing threat to the school or campus at anytime.

According to a probable cause statement presented by a responding officer, the principal provided video evidence, recorded by a student.

Burnett’s brother was engaged in a verbal altercation with another student. In the video, the camera allegedly shifted toward a pickup truck where Burnett was seated in the driver’s seat, pointing a small handgun in the direction of the other individuals involved.

Burnett’s brother was seen returning to the truck, where an audio recording captured him saying, “Put the gun away.”

After being booked in the Andrew County Jail, Burnett’s bond is set at $10,000. He is not to have any contact with the alleged victim and is not allowed to have any weapons, including firearms.

Burnett’s arraignment is scheduled at 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at the Andrew County Courthouse with Judge Emily Bauman.

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Coachella Valley Firebirds to host annual ‘Teddy Bear Toss Night’ tonight

KESQ on December 16, 2025

City News Service

PALM DESERT, Calif. (KESQ) – The Coachella Valley Firebirds hockey team will host its fourth annual “Teddy Bear Toss Night” tonight at Acrisure Arena.  

The game is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the arena at 75702 Varner Road.   

Attendees are encouraged to bring new or gently used stuffed animals to be tossed onto the ice following the Firebirds’ first goal of the game. The toys will be collected and donated to local fire and sheriff’s departments throughout the Coachella Valley for children in need.   

“Teddy Bear Toss Night is a perfect example of what makes this community so special,” Senior Vice President of the Firebirds and Acrisure Arena John Page said in a statement. “Our fans show up in a big way — not just to cheer on the Firebirds, butt to make a real difference for local families during the holidays and we are so proud to work with Find Regional Food Bank with our season of giving.”  

A “Holiday Community Pop-Up” will take place from 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday outside of Acrisure Arena for people to drop off Teddy bear or stuffed animal donations.  

The free pop-up will feature interactive games and appearances by mascot Fuego.

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Community Leaders, Locals, and Fans Remember Rob Reiner

KEYT on December 16, 2025

Tracy Lehr

SANTA BARBARA COUNTY, Calif. (KEYT) – Many people are just learning about the tragic deaths of Rob and Michele Reiner.

Young people may not know his name, but they may know his often quoted films including “When Harry Met Sally,” “Princess Bride,” “A Few Good Men,” “Stand by Me,” “Spinal Tap, Spinal Tap II,” and his recent book entitled “A Fine Line Between Stupid and Clever: The Story of Spinal Tap.”

People may remember his father Carl and Rob’s star-making role as Meathead on “All in the Family.”

Reiner’s acting and directing career led to recognition at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival in 2001 and one of his leading ladies, Meg Ryan, lives part time in Montecito.

But he is also remembered for his legacy when it comes to young children and child development.

Reiner helped pass Prop 10, a cigarette tax, to fund early childhood development programs.

The most famous is known as First 5 California.

Former Congresswoman Lois Capps said she was a nurse when it began and she has applauded it ever since.

“First 5 was his baby and it just made such a difference in how babies were appreciated and valued and given priority,” said Capps.

Wendy Sims-Moten knew Reiner due to her work as an advocate through First 5 with a focus on school readiness for children up to age 5.

“When prop 10 was being challenged, actually, he came and did an interview here, actually it was at Goleta Valley Community Center. We had little kids that were around and coming around they were at the Rainbow School and they were just being kids, I remember he was trying to do a press conference and they were yelling and screaming and he just made a wonderful look ‘oh they are just being kids and that is why were are here,’ so, kids are allowed to just be who they are and when they are growing up without pressure,” said Sims-Moten.

Sims-Moten remembers being In the room with him and the energy he brought.

“He understood and knew in a profound way that if we strengthen our systems at the earliest opportunities our children will be prepared for school, they will be stronger and they will be more resistant, I can’t believe that he is gone but his work will love,” said Sims-Moten.

She said is is a honor to be part of his legacy that includes First 5 Santa Barbara, First 5 San Luis Obispo and First 5 Ventura and more than 55 other locations in the state.

She also said having a famous man show his interest in the children from birth to 5 years of age made a difference and still makes a difference.

“Thank goodness for this visionary leader thank goodness for his vision and his legacy,” said Sims-Moten, “Thank you Rob, thank you for answering that call, thank you for sharing your vision about children and families with children in California.”

A statement from First 5 Santa Barbara County reads:

” In solidarity with First 5 California and their statement honoring the lives and legacies of Rob Reiner and Michele Singer Reiner, First 5 Santa Barbara County joins in mourning the profound loss of two individuals whose shared compassion and commitment left an enduring mark on early childhood systems across California. We extend our deepest condolences as we honor Rob’s visionary leadership and tireless advocacy for young children and families, alongside Michele’s creativity, commitment, and meaningful contributions to California’s early childhood landscape. Our hearts are with their family, friends, and all who are grieving this loss, as we hold gratitude for the legacy they leave behind during this difficult time.”

Many people are thinking about ways to pay tribute to Reiner and his wife and their children.

Local fan Guy Rivera said he knew Reiner was a good guy when he cast his mother in “When Harry Met Sally” and she ended up delivering the line “I’ll have what she is havin,” one of the most quoted lines in movie history.

Their second-born son Nick, who has battled addiction for half his life, is now facing charges in his parents death.

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Yucca Valley man suspected of sexual battery, detectives believe there may be more victims

KESQ on December 16, 2025

Jesus Reyes

YUCCA VALLEY, Calif. (KESQ) – A 65-year-old Yucca Valley man was arrested after allegedly sexually assaulting a man and a teenager.

Mark L. Wilkes was arrested on Wednesday at his home. He was charged Monday with sexual battery and arranging a meeting with minor for purpose of exposing genitals, according to court records. He is scheduled to be arraigned on Tuesday.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department noted two incidents allegedly involving Wilkes.

On Nov. 25, deputies responded to a report of a sexual assault on the 56000 block of Twentynine Palms Highway in Yucca Valley. An 18-year-old man told deputies that he was walking behind a local business when he was approached by the suspect, who was driving a black truck. After a brief verbal exchange, the victim was sexually assaulted.

Wilkes’ black truck(Courtesy of SBCSD)

Deputies were called out to another incident on Dec. 10 on the 7500 block of Kickapoo Trail. The 16-year-old victim reported he was inside a nearby business when he was approached by a man. The suspect initiated a sexually explicit and inappropriate conversation with the 16-year-old victim.

Morongo Basin Station detectives investigated both incidents. Based on their expedient investigation into the suspect’s identity, they were able to identify and link Wilkes as the same suspect in both incidents.

He was arrested and remains in custody on $250,000 bail.

Investigators said they believe that Wilkes may have assaulted additional victims in the Morongo Basin and Coachella Valley.

According to the Sheriff’s Dept., detectives were able to identify Wilkes’ vehicles using FLOCK technology. They learned that the vehicles traveled through the Morongo Basin and in the low desert of Riverside County.

White truck used by Wilkes'(Courtesy of SBCSD)

Any additional victims are urged to contact the Morongo Basin Sheriff’s Station to report the crime.

Persons with information related to this investigation are asked to contact Detective Ables of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department Morongo Basin Station at (760) 366-4175. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may contact We-Tip AT 1-888-78-CRIME.

Stay with News Channel 3 for any new developments.

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Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend honors Whitney Eskelson’s 15 years of service with new Youth Empowerment Fund 

KTVZ on December 16, 2025

KTVZ

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend said Monday it’s happy to honor Whitney Eskelson for 15 years of steady work with youth in Central Oregon by launching a new “Youth Empowerment Fund” in her name. 

Here’s their announcement about that new honor:

When the Boys & Girls Club opened in Bend, Whitney was one of the first kids through the door. Her family needed a safe place after school and in the summer, and the Club became that place. She found caring adults and mentors, homework help, nutrition support, and friends who felt like family. Club is where she grew up. 

What began as a place of safety for Whitney would later become the foundation for a lifetime of service to kids and families in Bend. 

After high school and college, she returned to the Club, this time as staff, working directly with Club members. She started as a Youth Development Professional, later became Program Director at the East Bend Club, followed by the Downtown Club, and today serves as Vice President of Program Strategy and Operations.

In every role, kids know they can count on her. Always looking for opportunities, she started a cheer program at the Club, to help youth feel a sense of belonging and help build their confidence. 

“Whitney helped my three kids feel safe and cared for at a time when we needed it most,”  shared Club parent Shereene Wray. 

“She encouraged my shy daughter through cheer, helped my son with ADHD feel understood, and gave my youngest a place where he felt comfortable and welcome. As a single mom, I will always be grateful for the way she supported our family. She is truly part of our lives.”

Club alumnus Alana Johnson shared, “Whitney is the heart and soul of the club. She was able to make so many people, including me, feel special and important which is hard to do in a sea of kids! She remembers everyone and every little important thing about the club kids and families during her time.

“She inspired me to embrace what’s unique and ‘weird’ and use it to take on the world! She inspired me to do the same as I went from club kid to staff and inspired kids in her footsteps! I would truly not exist in the way I do if it wasn’t for her.” 

To honor her years of service and care, Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend is launching the Whitney Youth Empowerment Fund. This fund will directly support families in need and help kids participate in Club programs where they feel steady support each day. 

Friends, families, and champions of the Club can make a gift to help a future family or give $15 each month, in honor of her 15 years of service. 

“Whitney has left a legacy here at the Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend,” said CEO Michael Baker. “She is proof positive that the club programs work.  She grew up in the club, and came back and dedicated 15 years of her life to serving those that need us most.” 

Through her leadership and the Whitney Youth Empowerment Fund, Whitney’s impact will continue to shape the lives of kids and families who need the Club today and for years to come. 

To give to the Whitney Youth Empowerment Fund, visit: https://abwmddtb.donorsupport.co/page/WHITNEY  

About Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend 

Boys & Girls Clubs of Bend has served Central Oregon youth for more than 30 years. The Club provides safe, supportive spaces, positive relationships, and enriching programs that help kids learn, lead, and thrive. Mission: We provide youth opportunities for growth that inspire and empower them to reach their full potential in the classroom, at home, and in our community. 

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Community Blood Center holding ‘Miracle of Giving’ blood drive at Hy-Vee on Tuesday

News-Press NOW on December 16, 2025

Patrick Holleron

ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) — The Community Blood Center is set to hold a blood drive in advance of the holidays with the help of a local grocery store on Tuesday.

The “Miracle of Giving” blood drive will be sponsored by Hy-Vee, offering prizes for participants.

Anyone who donates will receive an exclusive Kansas City Chiefs T-shirt along with being entered into a drawing for a $50 Hy-Vee gift card and tickets for the Chiefs Christmas Day game against the Denver Broncos.

Four $50 gift cards will be distributed as part of the drawing.

For those wanting to donate, the blood drive be held from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 16 at the mobile donor bus at Hy-Vee located on 201 N. Belt Highway.

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Boonville man accused of ramming into MU cop car twice during chase

KMIZ on December 16, 2025

Ryan Shiner

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

A Boonville man was charged in Boone County on Monday after authorities say he rammed his SUV into a police officer’s patrol vehicle on Dec. 3.

Devin Maupin, 36, was charged on Monday with aggravated fleeing, two counts of armed criminal action, one count of first-degree assault, second-degree drug trafficking, two counts of drug possession, one count of first-degree property damage, misdemeanor leaving the scene of an accident and misdemeanor second-degree property damage.

He is being held without bond at the Boone County Jail. A court date has not been scheduled.

The probable cause statement says an MU police officer tried to stop a Honda SUV on South Providence Road for speeding around 1 a.m. Dec. 3. The driver would not stop the vehicle and allegedly drove through multiple red lights.

Maupin eventually stopped the vehicle at the intersection of Hermitage Road and Waverly Court and rammed into the officer’s patrol vehicle twice, the statement says. He then later hit a parked car in a parking lot while trying to get away, the statement says.

Maupin then allegedly drove through several yards and parked between two duplexes before getting out of the vehicle and running away, the statement says.

The officer then got out of his vehicle and pulled out a gun before Maupin ran away, the statement says. Maupin allegedly broke a window of one of the duplexes and the officer held him at gunpoint until Maupin gave himself up, the statement says.

Maupin allegedly told the officer he tried to overdose on fentanyl. Officers found drugs in the vehicle, court documents say.

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